Torrential rains possible in Tahoe on July 4

Updated 11:18pm:

Fireworks set up on the South Shore have temporarily halted as the thunderstorm rolls through. Workers are sheltering in place and making sure the fireworks do not get wet, as well ensure they are not discharged by the lightning charges.

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The Lake Tahoe Basin and Alpine County, including the Washington Fire area, are under a flood watch today from 11am-8pm.

“Unstable conditions will allow showers and thunderstorms to develop this morning and continue through the evening hours,” according to the National Weather Service in Reno. “A few strong thunderstorms may develop and produce torrential rainfall. Those heading outdoors today should have a plan to quickly return to a sheltered location.”

Streams, dry washes and the Washington Fire are at risk for flash flooding on July 4.

While the Washington Fire near Markleeville is 94 percent contained, the threat of mudslides is serious based on the forecast. Earlier this week there were road closures because debris had washed onto the pavement.

The producer of the South Shore fireworks show told Lake Tahoe News the pyrotechnics can be shot from under a layer of plastic if need be.

Thunderstorms are in the forecast through most of next week for Lake Tahoe.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report